What Components Are In A Transmission?

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The modern automatic transmission consists of many components and systems that are designed to work together in a composition of ingenious mechanical, hydraulic and electrical technology that has evolved over the years into what many mechanically inclined individuals consider an art form. The main components that make up an automatic transmission include:

Planetary gear sets are the mechanical systems that provide the various forward gear ratios as well as reverse.

The hydraulic system uses a special transmission fluid sent under pressure by an oil pump through the valve body to control the clutches and the bands in order to control the planetary gear sets.

Seals and gaskets are used to keep the oil where it is supposed to be and prevent it from leaking out.

The torque converter acts like a clutch to allow the vehicle to come to a stop in gear while the engine is still running.

The governor and the modulator or throttle cable monitors speed and throttle position in order to determine when to shift.

On newer vehicles, a computer directs electrical solenoids to shift oil flow to the appropriate component at the right moment to control shift points.



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